Changing Car Ownership in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide

Car Owl

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Summary

• Transfer ownership using the V5C logbook: The seller fills in Section 6 (new keeper details) and gives it to the buyer. The seller posts Section 9 to the DVLA.
• You can also do it online: If the new keeper is present, use the DVLA's online service with the 11-digit reference number from the V5C.
• The buyer must insure the car before driving it away: No insurance = illegal. See our V5C guide for full details.

When you buy or sell a car, you must tell the DVLA about the change of ownership. Here's exactly how to do it.

If You're Selling a Car

1. Fill in Section 6 of the V5C: Write the new keeper's name and address.
2. Give the green "new keeper" slip (Section 10) to the buyer: This is their proof of purchase until the new V5C arrives.
3. Post the rest of the V5C to the DVLA: Use the address on the form. DVLA, Swansea, SA99 1BA.
4. Cancel your insurance: Once the car is sold, notify your insurer.
5. Road tax doesn't transfer: The buyer must tax the car in their own name. Your remaining tax will be refunded automatically.

If You're Buying a Car

1. Check the V5C matches the car: Verify the registration number, make, model, colour, and VIN.
2. Get the green "new keeper" slip: Keep this safe — it's your proof of ownership until you receive the new V5C (usually within 5 days).
3. Tax the car: You can tax it online at gov.uk using the 11-digit reference number.
4. Insure the car before driving: You must have at least third-party insurance.
5. Run a history check: Use our car history check to verify there's no outstanding finance, stolen status, or write-off history.

Transferring Ownership Online

The online method is faster:

1. Go to gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle.
2. Enter the vehicle's 11-digit reference number from the V5C.
3. Enter the new keeper's details.
4. Confirm the sale.

The DVLA will send a new V5C to the buyer within 5 working days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not telling the DVLA: If you sell a car and don't notify the DVLA, you'll be liable for any fines, tax, or parking tickets.
• Buying without a V5C: No V5C is a red flag. The car may be stolen or have other issues. See our buying without V5C guide.
• Forgetting to tax: Road tax doesn't transfer with the car. The buyer must tax it themselves.
• Driving without insurance: Even driving the car home is illegal without insurance. Get cover before you leave.

The V5C is not proof of ownership. It's a registration document. Anyone listed on it is the registered keeper, but they may not legally own the car (e.g., if it has outstanding finance).

What About Inherited Vehicles?

If someone has passed away and you're inheriting their car:

• You can transfer the car into your name using form V317 from the DVLA.
• You'll also need a copy of the death certificate and proof of your identity.
• The car will need to be taxed and insured in your name before you can drive it.

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